Waveshare Compute Module 5 IO Board, Compatible with All Variants of Raspberry Pi CM5, with PoE Feature, Bundle with PoE Base Board + Case + Power

The Waveshare Compute Module 5 IO Board is tailored for enthusiasts and developers looking to enhance their Raspberry Pi experience. Most users appreciate its build quality and the design that places the GPIO socket on the side for easier access, which is a notable improvement over the official Raspberry Pi case. The bundle, which includes a PoE Base Board and a case, is well-received, and many users mention the commendable specifications of the board compared to the original Raspberry Pi. However, significant concerns arise regarding the cooling solutions provided in the package. Many customers express dissatisfaction with the included fan, describing it as noisy and less effective, leading to thermal throttling during intensive tasks. Users highlight that the design of the case restricts airflow, with inadequate ventilation and the placement of components preventing the use of most aftermarket cooling solutions. While some users have successfully modified their setup to improve cooling—by removing the GPIO extender, implementing additional inlet ports, and replacing the fan with higher-quality alternatives—they believe that these modifications should not be necessary for a product of this caliber. Despite these cooling challenges, the majority of users find that the IO board performs well for less demanding tasks without requiring significant intervention. Documentation is praised, aiding in a smoother setup for those booting from USB. Overall, the product garners a mixture of appreciation for its potential and frustration regarding its current cooling design. **